We are often driven to eat because of the situation we are in. So, how do you stop eating too much?

For example, have you ever gone to the movie theater and ordered a large popcorn, just because that is what you do when you go to the movies?

While many of us associate popcorn with movies, ordering it just because is a good way to gain weight, which is probably not your goal.

In other posts, I have shared with you how to apply a number to your hunger to help naturally cut down on the number of calories you consume (If you missed the hunger scale post click here).

If you are in a situation like the one above and notice that you are really not hungry, then you may not want to indulge in all of the calories.

But how to do you avoid eating when the temptation is right in front of you?

A Sane and Simple way to stop eating from getting out of hand is to use a Stopper

What’s a Stopper and How Can It Stop Eating Too Much?

A Stopper is anything that changes the taste you have in your mouth, try a strong breath mint or a piece of gum.

A Stopper can also be something that takes you away from eating for a few moments allowing you to get past the craving. I like to use hot tea, but you could try coffee or another no-calorie drink.

Either option gives you an opportunity to move away from eating and gives your stomach time to tell your brain you feel satisfied.

If you absolutely cannot resist some popcorn, then have a couple of handfuls before popping in a Stopper. You will still come out ahead.

Look at it this way, soon the popcorn smell will diminish and your mind will focus on the movie and if the Stopper kept you from mindless eating, then you saved yourself a lot of work (i.e. diet and exercise) tomorrow.

This works great for avoiding dessert as well!

What do you think? Have you tried using a Stopper to stop eating too much? Did it work?

About the Author

Dr. Becky Gillaspy, DC graduated Summa Cum Laude with research honors from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1991.